The Elmwood FFA recently joined up with nearly 52,000 other FFA members by attending the National FFA
Convention in Indianapolis. There were 26 members from the chapter who made the 4.5-hour trip and kept
busy with a variety of activities.
The trip kicked off with a tour of the Wilson Sporting Goods factory which is located in Ada. The company
is the only business to make footballs for the NFL.
Next the chapter traveled to Not Just Popcorn which is located in Edinburgh, Ind. Here they were able to
view the production of approximately 285 different popcorn flavors as well as sampling of the various
flavors.
The first session of the convention featured Mike Rowe as the keynote speaker. He informed members on the
importance of perception.
Following the session, the chapter visited the National Agricultural Career show and the FFA shopping
mall. At the career show chapter members were able to view many agricultural businesses as they
displayed their products and services. Along with this, several colleges were present to discuss what
post-secondary options were available for FFA members.
In the FFA shopping mall, many members found FFA apparel and collectable farm toys. The chapter also
traveled to English’s Buffalo Farm in Bainbridge, Ind. There the chapter learned of the value of buffalo
as a food product. Later that day the chapter attended an event called the Buckeye Bash. This is a large
social event featuring a D.J., dancing, and refreshments. It is only open to Ohio FFA members and the
chapter had a fantastic time.
On the third day of the convention, the chapter members attended the morning session where motivational
speaker Harvey Alston spoke about overcoming obstacles. The chapter also attended a bronco and bull
riding event at the Indiana State Fairgrounds.
The chapter used some of its free time Friday evening to visit a laser tag and arcade entertainment
center.
Closing out the convention, Elmwood had three of five graduate members present to receive their American
FFA Degree, which is the highest degree of advancement in the FFA.
Receiving this honor were Ashley Davies, Marc Heinze, and Megan Morgart. Trenton Reynolds and CariAnn
Newby were recipients of the degree who could not attend.